Regional New South Wales could become a national hub for plant-based protein manufacturing, one of the fastest-growing sectors in global food production, according to a prospectus released by the government.
Released at the AltProteins25 conference (14 October), the NSW Plant-Based Protein Manufacturing Prospectus outlines the state’s natural, logistical, and research advantages for domestic and international investors seeking to establish or expand operations in Australia.
Developed by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and Investment NSW, the prospectus highlights access to high-quality raw materials such as chickpeas, soybeans, lentils and grains, a skilled workforce, export-ready ports, and affordable industrial land.
It also says the state has a strong R&D ecosystem, including collaboration between universities, CSIRO, government agencies and agribusiness.
University of Sydney Professor of Legume Biology and Molecular Genetics, Brent Kaiser, said global demand for sustainable protein sources would soar as the population nears 10 billion by 2050.
“We’ll need to increase global agricultural crop calorie production by around 47-61 per cent just to keep up. The real value lies in transforming commodity crops into value-added, plant-based food and beverage products,” Kaiser said.
The prospectus identifies five key regions for plant-based manufacturing:
- Riverina Murray;
- New England North West;
- Central West Orana;
- North Coast; and
- Hunter Central Coast.
Industry and trade minister, Anoulack Chanthivong, said the state was committed to “sustainable growth and future-focused industries”.
“The prospectus outlines the opportunities and benefits of investing in regional New South Wales and provides the clarity and confidence investors need.
“By backing innovative industries like plant-based manufacturing, we’re securing the state’s place in the future of food,” Chanthivong said.
The government said the prospectus was part of its broader strategy to strengthen regional economies, attract new industries and create long-term jobs through sustainable food production.
Agriculture and regional NSW minister, Tara Moriarty, said the state was ready to turn its agricultural strength into high-value manufacturing.
“With more than 4500 food and beverage manufacturing businesses and world-class R&D facilities, we have the skills and infrastructure to turn high-quality crops into premium plant-based protein products.
“This prospectus is about growing jobs, driving innovation and ensuring NSW captures its share of the rapidly expanding global market for healthy, sustainable food,” Moriarty said.
